An awareness programme marking the beginning of National Safety Week was organised at the Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Dollygunj as part of a month-long campaign aimed at promoting workplace safety and occupational well-being across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The programme was organised by the Department of Labour, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, under the theme “Safety and Well-Being Crucial for Viksit Bharat”. The initiative is part of the nationwide observance of National Safety Day and National Safety Week, which aims to create greater awareness about occupational health, industrial safety and environmental protection.
Officials said the year 2026 holds special significance as the National Safety Council marks its Diamond Jubilee, completing 60 years of work in promoting safety standards and awareness across industries and workplaces in the country. In recognition of the milestone and to further strengthen public engagement, the observance this year has been extended to cover the entire month.
Beginning on March 4, the campaign will be observed as National Safety Day and National Safety Month, with various awareness activities scheduled to take place throughout the islands. Authorities said the initiative seeks to reinforce the importance of safe working environments and encourage both employers and workers to adopt responsible safety practices.
The programme at ITI Dollygunj brought together trainees, officials and representatives from the administration. Around 150 trainees from the institute participated in the event, which included discussions and presentations highlighting the significance of workplace safety.
Officials explained that awareness campaigns of this nature play a crucial role in sensitising workers and future professionals about the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and adopting preventive measures to minimise workplace accidents.
During the event, a presentation was delivered by the Assistant Labour Commissioner and Inspector of Factories from the Department of Labour. The presentation focused on key safety practices that should be adopted in industrial establishments and workplaces to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
Participants were briefed about the importance of using protective equipment, maintaining proper safety protocols and ensuring compliance with occupational health regulations. The session also highlighted common causes of workplace accidents and the measures that can be taken to reduce risks.
Authorities noted that such programmes are particularly important for trainees preparing to enter technical professions, as early awareness about safety standards can help instil responsible work habits. Industrial training institutes often serve as the first exposure to structured work environments for many young professionals, making safety awareness an important component of their training.
Officials emphasised that the National Safety Month campaign is intended to create a culture in which safety becomes an integral part of everyday work practices rather than a reactive measure after incidents occur.
The Department of Labour has planned a series of awareness programmes across the islands during the month as part of the campaign. These initiatives will target industrial establishments, workers and trainees, encouraging them to adopt safe practices and comply with occupational safety regulations.
Workplace safety remains an important aspect of industrial development, particularly as industries expand and new infrastructure projects emerge. Authorities said awareness programmes can help bridge knowledge gaps and encourage greater responsibility among both employers and employees.
The campaign also seeks to reinforce the message that occupational health and safety are essential components of sustainable development and economic progress. By promoting awareness among workers, industries and training institutions, officials hope to strengthen the culture of safety across workplaces in the islands.
With the launch of the programme at ITI Dollygunj, the month-long observance has formally begun in the islands, with more awareness activities expected to be conducted in the coming weeks.
